DIY Dorm: Revamp Your Lamp!

01.11.12

If you’re looking for an easy way to brighten up your room (pardon the pun), a new refurbished lampshade might be just what you need! It’s much simpler than it sounds and won’t empty out your wallet. We’re bringing you basic instructions, but don’t be afraid to get creative!

Step 1: Using your tape measure, measure the circumference around both the top and bottom edges of the lampshade. You will then measure out two pieces of ribbon, one that will line the top outer rim and one that will line the bottom outer rim. When measuring each piece of ribbon, add a quarter of inch at the end (for gluing purposes) and then cut the ribbon.

Overlap the ribbon and glue in place.

Step 2: Lie the bottom-lengthed strip of ribbon face down and, starting at the edge, use your glue gun to dab an inch-long line of glue. Swiftly take the ribbon and press the glued section flush along the bottom outer rim of your lampshade (you want to make sure the glue does not dry first).

Step 3: Add another dot of glue about an inch and a half farther along from the first section and press this to the lampshade. Continue gluing the ribbon around the lampshade until you reach your starting point. Overlap the ribbon and glue the last edge in place. Repeat with other ribbon along top rim.

Even lampshades deserve a makeover!

Step 4 (Optional): Continue using Steps 1-3 with as many strips of ribbon as you prefer. If you are content with just the top and bottom edges, you are finished! Add an appliqué or embellishment to give it “something extra.”

If you want to try something a bit more difficult, we found great video-style instructions on TheDIYDish.com. They’ll teach you how to cover the entire lampshade using fabric and larger appliqués – great for a crafty dorm-dweller.

As always, we love hearing your feedback! Send us a comment with suggestions or questions and let us know if there is any particular project you’d like to see.